Volvo Cars NZ reveals EV ambitions

Volvo Cars New Zealand is aiming for nearly half of its sales next year to be battery electric vehicles (BEVs) as it works towards reaching the marque’s global goal of zero emissions by 2030.

Ben Montgomery, general manager, has spoken of the company’s ambitions for the New Zealand market after Volvo Australia announced bold plans to only sell BEVs by 2026.

He explains Volvo Cars NZ hopes 45 per cent of its sales in 2023 will be BEVS, with plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) accounting for 15 per cent and mild hybrids 40 per cent.

“Globally, Volvo Cars has committed to being a fully electric carmaker by 2030,” Montgomery, pictured, told Autofile Online.

“We are working closely with our colleagues at Volvo Cars to achieve this for New Zealand. 

“Discussions are ongoing as to the future roll-out plans for the NZ market but with the pure electric C40 first customer deliveries this month and XC40 Recharge available before the end of the year, we are well on our way.”

Volvo Australia made its pledge to only sell zero-emissions vehicles four years ahead of the marque’s broader target during the recent launch across the ditch of the new C40 Recharge, Volvo’s first electric-only SUV.

Stephen Connor, managing director of Volvo Australia, says the decision has been taken because there is no long-term future in cars with internal combustion engines. 

“The earlier deadline will allow us to meet the expectations of our Australian customers and be part of the solution when it comes to fighting climate change,” he adds.